1988 Blazer

[prowler13]

The manual for the truck says that it recommends that when towing a trailer over 1,000 lbs that there should be brakes on it. im wondering if towing a boat that is 2500 to 3000 is a bad idea with out brakes. truck is rated to tow 5,600. It doesn't seem smart to do this but brakes are expensive. is it worth it to add brakes? Thanks

 

[smokeonthewater]

Re: 1988 Blazer

you have answered your own question twice...... when they are cutting you out of the back of that truck that pulled out in front of you you can answer again.....
This is not intended as mean just as a clear colorful example

What you should do and what you can probably get away with are two different things

 

[Lou C]

Re: 1988 Blazer

I towed my 88 Four Winns when I first picked it up with my 98 Jeep Grand Cherokee (4 wheel disc brakes/ABS) and the trailer had no brakes...well I can say it's a BAD idea...I added a set of 10" surge drums soon thereafter...and it made a huge difference...the boat probably weighs close to 4000 on the trailer and the Jeep's about 4000...those four 11" disc brakes on the Jeep sure weren't intended to stop 8000 lbs...if the Blazer has the standard front disc and rear drum system it's even more in need of good trailre brakes...put em on they are not that expensive in the grand scheme of boating costs...if you're going to own a boat for a long time get used to spending money....

 

[superpop]

Re: 1988 Blazer

Not only is it not a good idea, as well as illegal in most states, but if you do get into an accident your insurance could balk at the claim as you were pulling the trailer illegally, and if anyone gets hurt, look out, the slime ball attorneys come out of the woodwork on stuff like this. So in the grand scheme of things it is not a good idea. Plus brakes make trailering so much less stressful and enjoyable.

 

[superpop]

Re: 1988 Blazer

Just checked, in Texas the cutoff is 4500# so legally it is OK. I still would recommend them though, cheap insurance.

 

[180shabah]

Re: 1988 Blazer

Used to have an '89, and the brakes on those things SUCK! Get brakes on the trailer, you will never regret it.

 

[j_martin]

Re: 1988 Blazer

The average stopping distance from 65mph is about 350 feet. If you have brakes on wheels with half the weight. (4000 lb vehicle, 4000 lb trailer and load without brakes) it'll be 550 feet assuming you can execute a 4 tires smoking stop without jack knifing the rig.

For safety's sake, get the brakes.

John

 

[Silvertip]

Re: 1988 Blazer

There are usually three words in the towing specs that people seem to always overlook. Those three words are "when properly equipped!" There is a very good chance your Blazer as it sits in your driveway is NOT properly equipped for 5600#. Axle ratio for that weight would likely be specified at 4.10:1. I would suggest you check that option code and I would almost bet the gearing is 3.52 or 3.73:1 on your vehicle.

 

[funk6294]

Re: 1988 Blazer

Put them on, its cheaper and easier than paying the insurance deductable on an accident that could have been prevented. Also as stated before it is much more relaxing towing something that stops easy. Just looking at Trailerpartssuperstore . com it looks like it would cost around 400 dollars, and that does not matter if you go electric or hydraulic.

 

[kenmyfam]

Re: 1988 Blazer

Better with brakes. Legal everywhere and a whole lot safer.
We have a 98 Jimmy. Brakes are great with a small box trailer or similar but with the weight you are hauling you need the brakes.